Barclay James Harvest ~ Hymn 2013

John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest’s new version of “Hymn”, which was recorded for a recent German television programme, is to be made available as a download-only single. The single will be released on 25th November 2013.

John Lees’ Hymn first appeared back in 1977 the Gone To Earth album. Originally titled “Hymn For A White Lady”, the song is primarily about the dangers of drug abuse, contrasting their illicit thrill with the spiritual “high” of Christianity, although many DJs and listeners have taken it for a straightforward Christmas song. The now traditional shouts of “yeah!” from the fans at the finale of the band’s live shows date back to early performances of the song, where John dedicated it to rock stars who had fallen victim to drugs, saying “let’s hear it for Jimi Hendrix… Paul Kossoff… Janis Joplin…” etc., and fans responded with a roar of approval. (Source: BJH website)

Updated – 26th August 2013: Barclay James Harvest new album

John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest will release their much awaited studio album, North, through Esoteric Antenna on 7th October 2013. This will be their first studio release since Nexus, released in 1999 and features John Lees (vocals & guitars), Craig Fletcher (vocals & bass), Jez Smith (keyboards & vocals) and Kevin Whitehead (drums & percussion).

The album will be available in three different formats: [1] Single Edition CD, [2] Limited Edition 2 Disc Set (Digipack), with the second disc comprising live tracks from Buxton Opera House – February 2011, [3] Vinyl LP. “Whilst the vinyl LP contains two fewer tracks than the CD versions, Esoteric are looking to put a limited edition vinyl release out for Record Store Day 2014 which will feature “Ancient Waves” and “On Top of the World”, with the possibility of an extra track.”

SINGLE CD EDITION:
1. If You Were Here Now
2. Ancient Waves
3. In Wonderland
4. On Leave
5. The Real Deal
6. On Top of the World
7. Unreservedly Yours
8. North
9. The End of the Day

LIMITED EDITION 2 DISC SET:
Disc One – “North”
1. If You Were Here Now
2. Ancient Waves
3. In Wonderland
4. On Leave
5. The Real Deal
6. On Top of the World
7. Unreservedly Yours
8. North
9. The End of the Day